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Protesters endangered themselves, their communities | Reader feedback

Protesters block traffic around the Michigan State Capitol building in Lansing on April 15, 2020.(Photo: Mandi Wright, Detroit Free Press)

On display in Lansing yesterday was not life, liberty, or the pursuit of happiness. Under the guise of our American right to assembly, a mob gathered, not only endangering themselves, but jeopardizing thousands of others throughout Michigan. News and social media abound with images of people ignoring medical science and common sense by congregating around the state Capitol without masks and without regard to distancing.

The odds were high that asymptomatic COVID-19 carriers were in the crowd. The probability these “patriots” will carry the virus to their families, essential workers, grocery stores, doctors, and nurses is astronomical. Areas that have so far eluded the coronavirus may now have it served to them on a platter of carelessness and stupidity.

Wednesday's protest stands to be the delta for new cases – and possibly more deaths – over the next month. We’ve seen how overwhelmed and underequipped large hospital systems in populous areas were to deal with this disease. How are small-town facilities going to be to deal with a spike in demand for ICU beds?

The dangers and deadliness are known by all. Protestors either callously ignored that evidence or are too dumb to grasp it. Every COVID-19 case eventually traced back to today at the Capitol was avoidable. Every ensuing death could be considered negligent homicide. Culpable also are the Republican Party and conservative groups that organized and promoted the event. Billed as “protest from your car,” there was exactly ZERO chance of avoiding a circus. They roused the rabble. They share the blame.

If Michigan’s quarantine needs to be extended due to Wednesday's gathering, more Michiganders will lose their jobs and more business fail to never re-open. Let’s remember who aided and abetted today’s mob. It was the Trump Republicans – not Governor Whitmer. I know which side I’ll be choosing between now and November.

Jeff Timmer

Former Director Michigan GOP (2005-2009)

Portland, Mich.

Don't exile Michiganders; find solutions

After listening to Governor Whitmer on Wednesday I feel it is important for the governor to begin listening to herself as we all fight to stay safe and continue our lives. Concerns were expressed about touching gas pumps and transmitting the virus, please make a directive requiring nitrile gloves be worn by every person touching a pump and then disposing the gloves after use, let’s get rid of the concern. People will need gas so let’s solve the problem.

Another valid example was people at the demonstration standing in groups and not wearing masks or gloves. Unfortunately, I’m sure the demonstration isn’t the only place this occurred. Make it a directive to require masks and gloves if out in public, and also not allowing people to congregate within six feet of each other.

I am asking to please start addressing the problems in ways that will allow Michiganians to return to some sort of a life. Whitmer is correct that nobody wants to die alone (as this virus has been causing), but living our lives in total exile is not an acceptable alternative. Let’s start implementing solutions as the situations require while keeping a focus on beginning a return to what may unfortunately become the new normal.